I AM saddened by the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Only two days before, she had received in audience the new prime minister of the United Kingdom.

I had met her on many occasions, especially during Commonwealth meetings.

In particular, I remembered her laughing at my joke about the English language. In Zimbabwe, I made a speech, in which I pointed out that what is said in English is not what is meant.

Thus, the presiding officer in parliament is called Mr Speaker, but he may not speak.

The Malay sultans are called the rulers, but they may not rule. The British adviser ruled.

Then, there is the Commonwealth where the wealth is not common.

That speech was broadcast by the BBC when the queen celebrated her golden jubilee. The queen laughed.

The queen visited Malaysia twice when I was prime minister. Once, when we hosted the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and the other, during the Commonwealth Games.

The queen was always gracious and hosting her was a pleasure.

I really did not expect her to pass away when she did. She was only one year younger than me.

She was a good example of a constitutional monarch. Her passing is a loss not just to the British but also to people who believe in the rule of law.

May her soul rest in peace. – September 13, 2022.

* Dr Mahathir Mohamad is former prime minister of Malaysia.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.